Injured Flyers G Boucher hopeful of return against Blackhawks in Cup final

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Injured Flyers G Boucher hopeful of return against Blackhawks in Cup final

PHILADELPHIA - Flyers goalie Brian Boucher has returned to practice after suffering a knee injury and hopes he can back up Michael Leighton in the Stanley Cup final.

Boucher was Philadelphia's post-season starter until he sprained a ligament in his left knee in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Leighton took over and had three shutouts in the East final to lead the Flyers to their first Stanley Cup final in 13 years.

Boucher was expected to miss the rest of the post-season. Boucher said after Wednesday's practice there were no setbacks in his rehabilitation. He wants to be in uniform for Saturday's Game 1 against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Boucher is 6-4 in the playoffs this year with a 2.33 goals-against average.